In preparation of summer, Cleco donated almost 700 fans to the Natchitoches Council on Aging, the Campti Seniors Group and 20 other agencies across the state to help seniors stay cool and manage their electric bills.
Shirley Turner, Cleco’s vice president of customer experience, said fans can make a big difference during hot, summer months and significantly cut energy bills.
“We recommend setting the thermostat at 78 degrees to keep electric bills manageable along with using a fan which makes the air feel 10 degrees cooler,” said Turner. “Doing these things will keep the temperature comfortable while saving money.”
According to Turner, air conditioners are typically the largest energy users in a home.
“Customers on a fixed income can benefit the most from adjusting their thermostats,” Turner said. “Using less energy can help them lower their electric bill, leaving them with money for other essentials.”
Other energy saving tips include keeping curtains and blinds closed during the day and using heat generating appliances, such as clothes dryers or the oven, in the evening when temperatures are cooler and air conditioners are not working as hard.
Cleco has donated fans to agencies serving the elderly for the past 15 years.
“Through the support of Cleco employees, customers and communities we more than doubled our fundraising goal,” said Jennifer Cahill, associate communications representative. “This support allows us to donate more fans to more agencies.”
Senior citizens living in the Cleco service territory should contact a participating agency to request a fan.